Peace Like a River (2004)

Conducted by music director Craig Jessop, with many new arrangements by associate director Mack Wilberg, this album features compositions by John Rutter, Janice Kapp Perry, and Irving Berlin, in a rich mixture of spirituals, folk songs, lullabies, and hymns. The Orchestra at Temple Square provides rich accompaniment.

Language
English

UPC Code
783027618822

Media Types
CD; MP3; Digital Download

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Description

I will extend peace to her like a river...as one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you...and when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice..." Isaiah 66:12- 14

These words capture the essence of this recording. The imagery of a river--deep, abiding, constant, unchanging--has long been a symbol of the inner peace so frequently sought and, for many, so seldom found.

Selections have been chosen to create a feeling of peace and comfort in time of need--when a friend is sick, hearts are grieving, a loved one is far from home, or any time a quiet refuge is sought from the turmoil of the day.

"Peace Like a River" begins with the tolling of the Nauvoo bell--itself a symbol of hope and constancy amid change--which originally graced the Mormon temple on the Mississippi. Mormon pioneers brought this memory of their former home to the Salt Lake Valley, where today it faithfully chimes the hour on Temple Square.

Just as the toils and sorrows of life vary, so too does the meaning of hope and consolation. And so, the music spans a broad expanse of repertoire--from Sibelius's moving "Be Still, My Soul" to Irving Berlin's familiar "Count your Blessings Instead of Sheep" to the beloved spirituals "Deep River" and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot." Featured also are several arrangements by associate conductor Mack Wilberg, including "Come, Let Us Anew", "This Is My Father's World", and "Wayfarin' Stranger."

The recording closes as it begins, with the sounding of the Nauvoo bell, embodying the hope that those who listen may find the blessings spoken of by Isaiah: peace, comfort, and a heart that rejoices.